Hi all
I've recently been reading Jenny Rogers - Coaching Skills; A Handbook (a very good book i might add and worth a look if you're interested in coaching) and came across something that really struck something in me.
The Principle of Choice.
Basicaly the Principle of Choice is the assumption that we can always choose how we respond to life's challenges. We can't always choose what happens to us but we can choose our response.
I thought about this for awhile and have to say, as difficult as it may be at times, I agree with Jenny.
I think why it struck such a chord is because it is particularly relevant for me at the moment as my company is going through a merger with a lot of redundancies happening. My role has been removed from the structure & I'll be competing for a position against good friends of mine. I'll be honest, it's been a difficult time at work, everyone is worried & motivation/morale is low. However, I've had a few people comment recently that I seem to be coping ok. Why do I not seem to be that bothered?
It's simple. It's not that I don't care (cos I really do!) it's just that I choose to not let this rule my life. I'm trying to see it as a positive - either I will get a position in the new company or I will leave this one having gained a wealth of a experience & qualifications and find a new opportunity somewhere else. I could wallow & think "poor me" but that wouldn't do me any good.
So then I started thinking about the Principle of Choice in the workplace. How is it relevant? How can we use it in a positive way?
I think if people can be more aware that they can chose their response to things (perhaps after a lot of practice & a good dose of self-discipline) we could see a massive change in the workplace. I can see people's relationships with colleagues potentially improving and their response to changes being made may be more positive, they may even embrace it.
What do you think? I'd love to hear your thoughts and/or experiences on this....
Jill
Replies
I covered this recently as part of a development course at work - I seem to think it was integrated into one of the Seven habits by Covey? It struck a chord with me as well, and i have utilised it many a time in my HR discussions with staff who are disgruntled at what amount to pretty minor niggles that neither they or I would be able to do much about. Getting them to recognise that is the first step in helping them through it. Not so long ago I had a member of staff on the verge of quitting due to a poor working relationship.. Using the principle discussed here I was able to let her see an alternative way to respond. Pleased to say, it worked very well - and she is back to her usual happy self again.
Steve
Hi Steve
I shall check out Covey, as I havent heard of him.
Good to hear you're using this effectively & it actually works! I think it may become part of my "toolkit" when dealing with colleagues.